The electric vehicle (EV) market is booming, but the Electric Cabriolet niche remains relatively small. This is largely due to the challenges inherent in electrifying a convertible, but with the rising popularity of EVs and increasing consumer demand for personalized vehicles, the future of the electric cabriolet looks bright. Imagine the thrill of open-air driving combined with the smooth, silent power of an electric motor – a truly exhilarating experience. This article explores ten electric cabriolets, both concept cars and those nearing production, that offer a glimpse into this exciting future.
Electric Convertible Concepts: Paving the Way for the Future
Several automakers have unveiled stunning electric cabriolet concepts, showcasing their vision for open-top driving in the age of electrification. These concepts, while not yet in production, offer a tantalizing preview of what’s to come.
Lexus LF-C2
Introduced in 2014, the Lexus LF-C2 embodies Lexus’ design philosophy for future convertibles. Its sleek, dynamic exterior, two-door body, and bold front fascia exemplify the brand’s unique styling. While not slated for production, the LF-C2 signifies Lexus’ commitment to innovation in the electric cabriolet segment.
Audi e-tron Spyder
Unveiled at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, the Audi e-tron Spyder concept featured a two-seater design and a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Combining a 3.0-liter V6 TDI diesel engine with two electric motors, it promised both power and efficiency. Its futuristic design and advanced technology hinted at Audi’s ambitions for electric convertibles.
Mercedes-Maybach Vision 6
The Mercedes-Maybach Vision 6, a grand electric cabriolet concept, debuted at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show. Its imposing six-meter length, four electric motors, and luxurious interior showcased Maybach’s vision for the future of ultra-luxury electric convertibles.
Electric Convertibles: From Concept to Reality
While concept cars offer a glimpse into the future, several electric cabriolets are either in production or nearing release, bringing the dream of open-top electric driving closer to reality.
Tesla Roadster
Tesla’s highly anticipated next-generation Roadster promises blistering performance and groundbreaking technology. Though its release has been delayed, the Roadster’s all-electric powertrain and sleek design are poised to redefine the electric sports car segment, including the electric cabriolet category.
MG Cyberster
Evolving from a 2021 concept car, the MG Cyberster is slated for release in the UK and Europe in the summer of 2024. While the production model has been toned down from the initial concept, it retains a striking design and promises an exhilarating open-top driving experience.
Polestar 6
Originally the O2 Roadster concept, the Polestar 6 is set to launch in 2026. Sharing a platform with the Polestar 5, this electric cabriolet boasts impressive performance figures, including 872bhp and a 0-62mph time of 3.2 seconds.
Bentley EXP 12 SPEED 6E
Unveiled at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, the Bentley EXP 12 Speed 6e concept showcased Bentley’s vision for an electric future. Its luxurious interior and innovative design, featuring a yoke-shaped steering wheel and a unique cockpit layout, hinted at a potential production model with a 300-mile range.
MINI Cooper SE Convertible
While currently a display vehicle with no production plans, the Mini Cooper SE Convertible demonstrates the feasibility of electrifying the iconic Mini Cooper. Based on the Mini Cooper S Convertible, it features a 184 horsepower electric motor and a quick 0-60 mph time.
Wuling Hongguang MINI EV Convertible
Launched in China in 2022, the Wuling Hongguang MINI EV Cabrio offers an affordable electric convertible option. With a range of 280 kilometers and a unique design, it caters to the growing demand for compact, city-friendly electric vehicles.
Ferrari 296
The Ferrari 296 GTB, while not a fully electric cabriolet, represents a step towards electrification with its hybrid powertrain. Combining a V6 engine with an electric motor, it delivers impressive performance and showcases Ferrari’s commitment to hybrid technology. This hybrid approach might pave the way for a fully electric Ferrari cabriolet in the future.
The electric cabriolet segment is poised for significant growth in the coming years. These featured vehicles, ranging from ambitious concepts to exciting production models, offer a compelling vision of the future of open-top driving, one where exhilarating performance and environmental consciousness converge.
